Nature
Climate Change Threatens Top Fish Predators’ Habitat
Climate change endangers fish predators, causing habitat loss and redistribution, impacting marine ecosystems.
A recent study has revealed alarming predictions for some of the ocean’s top predators, including sharks, tuna, and billfish. These highly migratory fish species are projected to experience substantial habitat loss and redistribution by the year 2100 due to the effects of climate change. The Northwest Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, among the fastest warming ocean regions, are expected to see temperature increases between 1-6°C (+1-10°F) by the end of the century. These changes have far-reaching implications for marine ecosystems.
Impacts on Iconic Species:
The research, published in the journal Science Advances, examined 12 species of fish predators and found that many could lose up to 70% of their suitable habitat within the next eight decades. The consequences of these climate-induced changes are already being observed. The study highlights the urgency of adaptively and proactively managing dynamic marine ecosystems to mitigate the impacts of climate change on these iconic and economically significant species.
Hotspots of Habitat Loss:
The study identified offshore areas along the Southeast U.S. and Mid-Atlantic coasts as predicted hotspots for multi-species habitat loss. Sharks such as blue, porbeagle, and shortfin mako, as well as tuna species like albacore, bigeye, bluefin, skipjack, and yellowfin, and billfish species including sailfish, blue marlin, white marlin, and swordfish, are all expected to experience widespread habitat disruptions.
Observational Data:
Using three decades of satellite, oceanographic model, and biological data, scientists developed dynamic species distribution models to assess the impacts of climate change on these fish species. The findings indicate that climate-driven changes are already underway based on empirical data collected over the past two decades. The study emphasizes the importance of using satellite data, such as that provided by NASA, to understand the effects of a changing ocean on commercially important marine species.
A newly published study from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, San Diego State University, and NOAA Fisheries, shows that some species of highly migratory fish predators – including sharks, tuna, and billfish, could lose upwards of 70% of suitable habitat by the end of the century, which is when climate driven changes in the ocean are projected to increase between 1-6°C (+1-10°F) in sea surface temperatures. The study identified the Northwest Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, which are among the fastest warming ocean regions, as predicted hotspots of multi-species habitat loss.
Implications for Fisheries and Communities:
The shifts in habitat and species distributions have significant implications for fisheries and the socioeconomic well-being of coastal communities. Fisheries management and conservation efforts need to adapt to these ongoing changes. Static management measures that do not account for species redistribution under climate change will become less effective. The study calls for adaptive management approaches that can respond to the expected changes, ensuring the resilience of both marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for action to address the impacts of climate change on top fish predators. By understanding the potential changes and their consequences, we can develop climate-resilient management policies and adaptive strategies. It is crucial to protect the health of marine ecosystems, preserve species diversity, and support the livelihoods of coastal communities. The research serves as a wake-up call to prioritize the conservation and management of these vital marine resources in the face of a changing climate.
Further reading: Top Fish Predators Could Suffer Wide Loss of Suitable Habitat by 2100 Due to Climate Change
Blog
Bioluminescent Waves in San Diego: A Captivating Coastal Phenomenon
“Experience the enchanting glow of bioluminescent waves along San Diego’s coast, a mesmerizing natural phenomenon caused by phytoplankton.”
Bioluminescent waves have become a captivating spectacle along the coast of San Diego County, attracting scores of SoCal residents eager to witness this natural phenomenon firsthand. The mesmerizing glow is caused by tiny light-producing organisms called dinoflagellates, which reside in the ocean. When these phytoplankton are agitated by waves or splashing, they emit a beautiful luminous display.
Recently, the bioluminescent waves have been observed in various locations including Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs, Blacks Beach, La Jolla Shores, Encinitas, Carlsbad Beach, Tamarack Beach, and Oceanside. The unpredictability of these blooms adds to the excitement, as one never knows when or where they will occur.
For San Diego residents hoping to experience the magic of bioluminescent waves, a few tips can enhance their chances. First, checking with local aquariums and maritime institutes such as the Birch Aquarium, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Ocean Institute can provide updates on bioluminescence sightings. These institutions often share information on their websites or social media platforms.
Finding a dark location away from artificial light is crucial for optimal viewing. Experts recommend heading to the shore before the moon rises, approximately two hours after sunset. This way, the darkness amplifies the glow, and the waves become even more enchanting.
Tracking hotspots is another useful strategy. The best locations for witnessing bioluminescent displays can vary from night to night. By monitoring social media platforms and hashtags associated with bioluminescence, residents can stay informed about the latest hotspots and plan their visits accordingly.
The return of bioluminescent waves to the San Diego coastline has sparked a sense of wonder and awe among locals. It’s a reminder of nature’s remarkable beauty and the extraordinary phenomena that unfold right in our own backyard. So, grab your camera, head to the coast, and immerse yourself in the captivating glow of bioluminescent waves.
To learn more about the topic, please read further: The surf is sparkling with neon light. Here’s where to see bioluminescence at San Diego County beaches.
Community
Kia partner, The Ocean Cleanup, delivers record 55-ton ocean plastic haul
- Kia global partner, The Ocean Cleanup, sets a new record for the amount of plastic reclaimed from the world’s oceans
- 55 tons of ocean plastic delivered to Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada
- Plastics will be recycled; proportion to be used in future Kia models under multi-year partnership
- Catch delivered to shore from 1.6-million-square kilometer Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) by The Ocean Cleanup’s System 002
- The Ocean Cleanup announces scale-up to largest-ever System 03 in ongoing mission to remove 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040
- Initiative aligns with Kia’s mission to become a sustainable mobility solutions provider
- Kia remains committed to more than 20% increase in plastic reuse by 2030 and achievement of carbon neutrality by 2045
- View film of record ocean plastic reclamation here
SEOUL, South Korea /PRNewswire/ — Kia plans to use recycled plastic from a 55-ton haul recently reclaimed from the Pacific Ocean in its new EV models. The record-breaking amount of plastic reclaimed by Kia’s global partner, The Ocean Cleanup, marks the next phase in a seven-year global partnership agreed in April 2022 as part of Kia’s transformation into a leading sustainable mobility solutions provider.









The Ocean Cleanup, the international non-profit project with the mission of ridding the oceans of plastic, landed its plastic catch at Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada. The record catch was removed from the Pacific Ocean using The Ocean Cleanup’s System 002 extraction technology following a voyage through the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP).
Recycling of the plastic will begin shortly, and Kia will use a proportion of the material in future models. This policy aligns with Kia’s commitment to provide sustainable mobility solutions that have a measurable impact on achieving sustainability at scale.
Charles Ryu, Senior Vice President and Head of the Global Brand & CX Division at Kia Corp., commented: “The record catch of plastic brought to shore by The Ocean Cleanup is tangible proof of how technology can deliver sustainable solutions at scale. Initiatives such as this one perfectly align with Kia’s transition to a sustainable mobility solutions provider and our Plan S strategy, through which we embrace the needs of our customers and the protection of our environment by acting as a responsible corporate citizen.”
For more information, visit the Kia Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com
SOURCE Kia Corporation
Community
Overcoming Barriers to Fire Ant Allergy Treatment
Addressing barriers to fire ant allergy treatment: A case study highlighting solutions for improved access and outcomes.
A recent case study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice sheds light on the obstacles faced by families seeking venom immunotherapy for fire ant allergies. The study focuses on a 4-year-old boy from New Orleans, Louisiana, who suffered a severe allergic reaction after being stung by fire ants. Dr. John Carlson, a pediatric allergy and immunology specialist at Ochsner Health, led the research.
« Case Study: Overcoming Barriers to Venom Immunotherapy for Fire Ant Allergy Patients
The Prevalence of Fire Ants:
The study reveals that fire ants, particularly the black and red imported species, have become widespread in the southeastern United States. In fact, a staggering 58% of New Orleans residents reported being stung by fire ants in the past year. Despite efforts to avoid these stings, individuals with a history of anaphylaxis still face the risk of being stung.
Barriers to Treatment:
While venom immunotherapy has been proven safe and effective, accessing adequate treatment remains a challenge. The study suggests that forming broader coalitions involving community partners, patient advocacy groups, physicians, and lawmakers is essential to addressing the overlapping hazards faced by families living in poverty.
Collaborative Solutions:
Dr. Carlson emphasizes the need for exploring all available resources to assist families with transportation barriers, lack of childcare, and difficulty taking time off from work. To create sustainable change in underserved communities, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together. Parents of children with fire ant allergies must have access to life-saving immunotherapy treatments.
Investing in Marginalized Communities:
Investing in marginalized communities is particularly important to mitigate the effects of exposures on child health. The study underscores the importance of engaging in dialogue with families, schools, clinics, and other stakeholders to identify the best strategies for improving access to care and achieving more equitable outcomes.
Call to Action:
This case study serves as a call to action, raising awareness of the barriers faced by fire ant allergy patients and their families. By fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals, community partners, and policymakers, meaningful change can be achieved, leading to improved access to vital treatments for those in need. Together, we can overcome barriers and ensure better outcomes for fire ant allergy patients.
Source: Ochsner Health
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